Are there risk factors that up your chances for hodgkins lymphoma?

Yes, there are several risk factors that can increase the chances of developing Hodgkin's lymphoma. These risk factors include:

- Age: Hodgkin's lymphoma is most commonly diagnosed in young adults between the ages of 20 and 40.

- Gender: Men are more likely to develop Hodgkin's lymphoma than women.

- Family history: People with a family history of Hodgkin's lymphoma are at an increased risk of developing the disease.

- Epstein-Barr virus infection: Infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a strong risk factor for Hodgkin's lymphoma. EBV is a herpesvirus that is found in most people worldwide, but only a small percentage of people who are infected with EBV will develop Hodgkin's lymphoma.

- Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV infection, are at an increased risk of developing Hodgkin's lymphoma.

- Certain medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as celiac disease and thyroiditis, are associated with an increased risk of Hodgkin's lymphoma.

- Radiation exposure: People who have been exposed to high levels of radiation, such as those who have undergone radiation therapy for cancer or who live in areas with high levels of background radiation, are at an increased risk of developing Hodgkin's lymphoma.

It is important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not mean that a person will definitely develop Hodgkin's lymphoma. However, it is important to be aware of these risk factors so that you can talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk and to be aware of the signs and symptoms of Hodgkin's lymphoma so that you can seek treatment promptly if you develop them.